Hardaway averaged a career-high 14 points per game last season for the Atlanta Hawks, but by most indications, the Knicks’ offer was an overpay. Two reports said the Hawks planned to offer $US45-48 million to Hardaway.

From the sounds of it, much of the NBA was surprised at the Knicks offering a player they drafted in 2013, then traded in 2015, so much money.

Yet the allocation of the money is still confusing. According to Mannix, Hardaway’s contract takes up 18% of the Knicks’ salary cap, a high amount for a player who, thus far, doesn’t project as a star. The Knicks also have Courtney Lee, who they signed to a four-year, $US48 million contract last summer, who plays the same position as Hardaway. They also don’t have a veteran point guard on the roster.